Difference Between Hajj and Umrah, Hajj and Umrah as Islam is the quickest growing religion of today having around 1.6 billion servants of Allah SWT around the globe. It spurs love, peace, and acceptance for one another. It reinforces equality, morality and endorses intellect and practice of spiritual and worldly affairs. Among the fundamental acts of Islam like Shahadah, Salah, Fast, Zakah one is to perform Hajj for those who are capable physically and financially.

Difference Between Hajj and Umrah

Hajj & Umrah

Difference between Hajj and Umrah are a significant act of worship undertaken by the Muslims to gain proximity of Allah Almighty and spiritual refurbishment. Many of the rituals of these pilgrimages are same, yet there are many differences amongst the two as well as:

Significance:

The major pilgrimage is Hajj while Umrah is considered as lesser one. Hajjis more rewarding and poses higher significance as that of Umrah.

Rituals:

Umrah involves Ihram, circumambulation of Kaabah, Sai’y between Safa and Marwa, cutting or shaving hair and drinking Zamzam. Hajj includes all the above rituals also of spending days in the bordering areas of Makkah, Devil stoning, and slaughtering of the animal.

Ruling:

Hajj is amongst the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory on those Muslims who are financially and physically capable for once in a lifetime. Allah has mentioned Hajj in Quran. Scholars share a different view on Umrah. Some believed it to be obligatory while others take it as Sunnah. In general, Umrah is recommended to perform with Hajj known as Umrah al Tamatu that includes both Umrah and Hajj.

Types of Hajj and Umrah:

There are three types of Hajj such as Qiran, Tammatu and Ifrad. Qiran: Qiran is the performing difference between Hajj and Umrah alternatively. Tammatu: the difference between Hajj and Umrah are carried out separately during Hajj months. Ifrad: it is referred to Hajj. Umrah is of two types such as Umrah tul Tammatu and Umrah tul Mutradah. Umrah tul Tammatu: it is performed in Hajj months only together with other pilgrims. Umrah tul Mutradah: it can be performed individually.

Performing Pilgrimage

Hajj can only be performed in the months of Shawwal, Dhul Hajjah, and Dhul Qadah while Umrah is allowed to perform at any month of the year.

Conclusion

Despite the above-mentioned difference between Hajj and Umrah both is the symbol of love and devotion towards Allah, unity amongst Muslims, Purification of soul and a way of strengthening up the level of faith in Allah the Almighty.